Section 3: Reasoning in Biological and Physical Sciences
Understanding what's expected in the GAMSAT Section 3 exam
Overview
Section 3 of the GAMSAT assesses your ability to reason with scientific concepts and solve problems across biology, chemistry, and physics. The emphasis is on reasoning and problem-solving rather than memorisation of facts. All necessary information is typically provided in the question stems.
Time Allocation
Total time: 170 minutes
Number of questions: 75 questions
Time per question: Approximately 2.3 minutes
Question Format
Multiple choice: All questions are multiple choice
No calculator: No calculator or reference materials allowed
Reasoning focus: Tests problem-solving, not memorisation
Subject Areas
Section 3 covers three main scientific disciplines:
🧬 Biology (40%)
Topics include cellular biology, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, evolution, and ecology. Questions often integrate multiple biological concepts and require understanding of biological processes and systems.
Key areas: cell structure and function, molecular biology, genetics, human physiology, evolution
⚗️ Chemistry (40%)
Topics include organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. Questions test your ability to apply chemical principles, understand reaction mechanisms, and solve quantitative problems.
Key areas: organic reactions, equilibrium, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, acid-base chemistry
⚛️ Physics (20%)
Topics include mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Questions require application of physical principles and mathematical reasoning.
Key areas: mechanics, energy, waves, electricity, circuits, thermodynamics
Question Types
1. Data Interpretation
Questions that present data in tables, graphs, or charts and require you to interpret, analyse, and draw conclusions from the information provided.
2. Experimental Design
Questions about experimental procedures, controls, variables, and scientific methodology. You may need to identify flaws in experimental design or predict outcomes.
3. Diagram Analysis
Questions that include diagrams, molecular structures, or visual representations of scientific concepts. You must interpret these visuals to answer questions.
4. Problem-Solving
Multi-step problems that require you to apply scientific principles, use formulas, and perform calculations. These often integrate concepts from multiple areas.
Key Skills Assessed
Reasoning from first principles: Applying fundamental scientific concepts to solve novel problems
Data analysis: Interpreting graphs, tables, and experimental results
Problem-solving: Breaking down complex problems into manageable steps
Conceptual understanding: Understanding relationships between scientific concepts
Mathematical reasoning: Performing calculations and working with formulas (no calculator)
Tips for Success
Read the stem carefully
All necessary information is usually provided in the question stem. Pay attention to units, conditions, and any data presented.
Focus on reasoning, not memorisation
The GAMSAT tests your ability to reason with scientific concepts, not your knowledge of specific facts. Focus on understanding principles and relationships.
Practice mental arithmetic
Since calculators aren't allowed, practice working with numbers mentally. Learn to estimate and use approximation techniques.
Understand the question
Before attempting to solve, make sure you understand what the question is asking. Identify the key concepts and relationships involved.
Manage your time
With approximately 2.3 minutes per question, time management is crucial. Don't spend too long on difficult questions—make your best attempt and move on.
Practice across all subjects
Ensure you practice biology, chemistry, and physics questions. Many questions integrate concepts from multiple disciplines.
How to Practice
📚 Question Bank
Practice with our comprehensive bank of Section 3 questions covering biology, chemistry, and physics. Filter by subject or practice across all disciplines.
Start Practising →📐 Formula Reference
Quick reference guide for important formulas and equations across biology, chemistry, and physics.
View Formulas →🧩 Problem-Solving Strategies
Learn effective strategies for approaching complex multi-step science problems.
Learn Strategies →Official Information
For the most up-to-date and official information about GAMSAT Section 3, please refer to the official ACER GAMSAT Information Booklet.
📄View Official GAMSAT Information Booklet↗